A Smart Way to Track Propane and Heating Oil Usage
Why Fuel Tank Monitors Are Becoming Essential for Homes and Businesses
Managing fuel levels used to mean regularly checking a tank gauge and estimating when the next delivery might be needed. Today, fuel tank monitoring systems make it much easier to track fuel usage and ensure tanks are filled at the right time.
Tank monitors are increasingly used in both residential and commercial fuel systems because they provide accurate, real-time information about how much fuel remains in a tank.
What Is a Fuel Tank Monitor?
A fuel tank monitor is a device installed on a propane or heating oil tank that measures the amount of fuel remaining inside the tank. The device transmits tank level data electronically so the fuel level can be monitored remotely.
Depending on the system, tank monitors may allow:
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Fuel suppliers to view tank levels remotely
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Customers to monitor their tank level through an app or web portal
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More accurate delivery scheduling
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Early alerts when tank levels begin to drop
This technology allows deliveries to be planned based on actual tank levels rather than estimates alone.
Why Tank Monitors Are Recommended
We strongly recommend tank monitors for both residential and commercial customers because they improve visibility and help prevent unexpected run-outs.
Tank monitors can help:
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Improve delivery scheduling accuracy
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Provide better insight into fuel usage patterns
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Reduce the risk of unexpected run-outs
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Allow both the customer and supplier to monitor tank levels
When used with automatic delivery, tank monitors provide an additional layer of reliability because deliveries can be scheduled based on real-time fuel levels.
Tank Monitors for Homes with Generators
Tank monitoring becomes especially important for homes that use propane-powered standby generators.
Standby generators can consume significant amounts of propane when they operate. Because generators typically run during power outages, fuel usage may increase suddenly and unexpectedly.
If you install a standby generator, please contact our office so we can update your account. This helps us understand your expected fuel usage and schedule deliveries appropriately.
You can learn more about standby generators here:
Learn more about standby generators →
When a generator is installed by a verified Generac or other manufacturer-certified dealer, it is important to notify your fuel provider so generator usage can be added to your delivery profile.
When Tank Monitors Are Essential
While tank monitors are recommended for most installations, they become especially important when a single propane tank supplies multiple appliances or systems.
Tank monitoring is strongly recommended if your tank supplies:
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A standby generator
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A pool heater
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A whole-home heating system
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Multiple propane appliances
When generators or pool heaters share the same tank as the home’s heating system, fuel usage can increase quickly during certain conditions. Tank monitoring helps ensure the tank level is tracked accurately during these periods of higher demand.
Tank Monitoring for Commercial Fuel Systems
Tank monitors are also widely used in commercial settings where fuel demand can fluctuate depending on operations.
Commercial applications often include:
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Restaurants and commercial kitchens
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Farms and agricultural operations
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Construction sites
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Commercial buildings and warehouses
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Backup generator systems
In these environments, tank monitoring helps businesses avoid unexpected disruptions by ensuring fuel levels remain visible and deliveries can be scheduled appropriately.
Learn more about commercial systems →
A Simple Way to Improve Fuel Management
Tank monitors provide an additional layer of information that helps both customers and suppliers manage fuel more effectively. While not required, they are strongly recommended for most installations.
For customers using propane for generators, pool heaters, or multiple appliances, tank monitors can play an important role in ensuring fuel levels are tracked accurately and deliveries are scheduled when needed.
If you have questions about tank monitoring systems or would like to learn more about available options, please contact our office.
